Opener Akhil (127) and southpaw Vikrant (179) power Payyade SC to a thumping win in the Purshottam Shield Tournament ‘17

By CricketGraph Editor Last updated Dec 19, 2017

While Akhil is known to an aggressive top order batsman who loves to take on the bowlers rather than settling down, Vikrant on the other hand also displayed his elegance with a flawless ton which included some great shots. Both the batsman were a feast to the eyes as they batted beautifully together at the Karnatak Sporting Association, Cross Maidan.

**Both the left-handers Akhil and Vikrant stitched a 219run stand together at the top of the order**

Payyade SC who won the toss elected to bat first since they have a good batting line up. Their decision proved to be spot on as they notched up a big total of 404/7 in 70 overs. Left-handed opener Akhil Herwadkar smashed a brilliant 127 off 148balls which included 17fours and 2sixes to develop the positive momentum right from the start. Left-handed Vikrant auti who came in at no.3 continued the positive momentum created by Akhil as both the batsman stitched a great partnership of 211runs which solidified the Payyade innings. Vikrant went on to score a classy 179 off just 181balls (20fours, 1six) at healthy strike rate of almost 100 keeping the scorecard ticking. Both the batsman also did good running between the wickets and especially Vikrant whose 93runs came in running.

In reply, Karnatak SA were bundled out for just 142 runs where in no.3 Eknath Kerkar once again top scored with 61 and displayed solid batting at a time when his mates were getting out from the other end. Eknath continued his good run with the bat though his team struggled this time. Medium pacer Harmeetsingh Baddhan was the pick of the bowlers as he came up with impressive bowling figures of 5/79 in 15.5 overs. Payyade SC won the match by a heavy margin of 262 runs and it was definitely Akhil, Vikrant with the bat and Harmeet with the ball who stood out with their great individual performances. Also this is talented Vikrant’s 3rd consecutive ton where in two came in times shield. With the form Vikrant is, he is certainly looking set have a great journey ahead in cricket.

CRICKETGRAPH